ARF believes caregivers should never be forced to choose between self care and pet care. The ARF Emergency Medical Fund® (EMF) provides residents of Contra Costa County, California with affordable, high-quality, non-emergency veterinary care for their pets at ARF’s clinic during times of serious financial crisis. Since 1995, the ARF Emergency Medical Fund® has been a lifeline for thousands of dogs and cats.

Tabby, a sweet elderly cat, was having trouble eating. After being examined by one of our veterinarians it was determined that she needed both a dental cleaning and the teeth that were causing her pain extracted. Her doting guardian lived on an extremely limited, fixed income and was devastated that he was unable to scrape together funds for the costly surgery necessary to help his feline companion. Acting quickly through EMF, the skilled ARF staff were able to remove the teeth needed to make Tabby comfortable to eat again.

History

Inspired by calls they received from the community, ARF volunteers Bev Greenbaum, Dorothy Bullard, Elvira Clark, Enid Schlichtman, and Dolores McCoskey - the "EMF Ladies" - began making and selling crafts to raise dollars to help caregivers who couldn't afford veterinary care. The ARF Emergency Medical Fund® was formed in 1995, and is now funded by proceeds generated by the ARF Thrift Store and generous donations from the public.

Qualifying for EMF

Guardian and pet must reside in Contra Costa County, California

Household income at or below the U.S. Department of Housing and Development’s (HUD) definition of very low income limits

Pet must be spayed and/or neutered

Proof the applicant is the regular caretaker of the animal

Please be aware that although a household may qualify for EMF services, ARF cannot perform all medical services. EMF treatment cannot be used for routine, exploratory, elective, preventative, or specialty veterinary care. After an application and qualifying materials are submitted, you will hear from a representative within three business days. The term “emergency” in EMF refers to the financial crisis of an owner unable to access affordable veterinary care.

Individuals who qualify for ARF’s EMF financial assistance should contact ARF at (925) 296-3125 or request an appointment.